Somnath Temple, Kutch Coast on High Alert Amid Tension

Ahmedabad, Gujarat – In response to escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan international border in Kutch, the Gujarat government has significantly ramped up coastal and temple security across strategic regions including Somnath, Gir Somnath, Dwarka, and the sensitive sea zones of Kutch.

Z-plus security at the sacred Jyotirlinga Somnath Mahadev Temple has been reinforced with the deployment of Police Inspectors (PI) and Police Sub-Inspectors (PSI) at vital locations. A control room has been activated with a round-the-clock officer rotation, while bomb detection and dog squads are also on alert to maintain maximum security.

As a preventive measure, all fishing activities in the maritime zones of Narayan Sarovar, Jakhau, and Lakhpat in Kutch have been banned indefinitely, and fishermen have been recalled to shore. “This step was necessary considering the proximity of these areas to the international maritime boundary,” a senior coastal police official stated.

The security situation in Dwarka, another religiously and strategically vital location, has also been tightened. The Indian Army has assumed coastal control, and enhanced surveillance has been established around the Dwarka Jagat Mandir and nearby Okha port. The Coast Guard is actively patrolling up to 12 nautical miles into the Arabian Sea, assisted by Indian Navy ships and helicopters.

Security has also been beefed up on the Hazira coast near Surat, where Marine Police and patrol boats are actively monitoring offshore activities. “Our security personnel are on high alert to respond to any threats, especially at key religious and economic zones,” an official source confirmed.

District Police Chief Akshay Raj Makwana urged the public to avoid spreading or reacting to rumors. “We have ensured comprehensive security in sensitive villages near the border in Vav and Suigam areas. Citizens should remain calm and vigilant,” he said.

The situation harks back to the 1971 Indo-Pak war when Pakistan attacked Bhuj four times on December 8–9, causing severe damage to the airstrip. Then, local women from Madhapar village, under the guidance of Air Force Commander Vijay Karnik, heroically restored the runway overnight.

In Banaskantha, authorities are on alert with contingency plans in place. “We are ready to relocate people from 24 border villages if needed,” the District Collector confirmed. Residents are cooperating. “No lights at night, no mobile chatter outside. Our faith and vigilance keep us strong,” said Arvindbhai Trivedi, a resident of a border village.